YSRCP Alleges Electoral Malpractices in Pulivendula, Ontimitta Byelections

Quick Summary

• YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders accused the ruling coalition government of power misuse and undermining democratic processes during Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituency (ZPTC) byelections in Pulivendula and Ontimitta.
• Leading members, including former ministers, MLAs, and Vijayawada civic representatives, formally complained to State election Commission officials in Vijayawada about alleged irregularities.
• Accusations include cash distribution to voters (₹10,000 per vote), intimidation tactics like false police cases, voter slip confiscation, and polling station relocations to neighboring villages.
• Specific claims were made against the deployment of police and revenue officials favoring the ruling party’s campaign efforts.
• They asked for action such as clear voter slip dissemination, establishment of complaint call centers for voters, installation of surveillance cameras at polling stations, and safety measures for polling agents.
• Alleged practices like vote-buying drew comparisons with previous controversies surrounding byelections in Nandyal.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The allegations by YSRCP leaders highlight long-standing concerns regarding electoral malpractice during local elections in India. If substantiated, claims of vote-buying and misuse of administrative machinery could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions. Requests directed toward the Election Commission-such as improving transparency through surveillance measures-are relevant given their potential to safeguard fair elections.However, accusations alone do not confirm wrongdoing; self-reliant investigations or decisive action by electoral bodies are crucial for verifying these allegations impartially. From a governance viewpoint, instances where polls are perceived as compromised may adversely affect accountability among political leadership across all parties. Ensuring free and fair local elections remains critical not only for maintaining credibility at that level but also as a cornerstone of functional democracy.

Read More: Published – August 11, 2025